Perceptions of Teachers and Students on the Effects of Collaborative Approaches in Teaching and Learning Araling Panlipunan Subject

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

According to Department of Education Order 31, s. 2012, Policy Guidelines on the Implementation of K to 12 Basic Education Program, the pedagogical approaches are integrative, constructivist, inquiry-based, reflective, and collaborative. Students learn at their own pace in their own learning style. They are empowered to make choices and to become responsible for their own learning in the classroom and for a lifetime.

Collaborative learning was introduced and discussed in secondary schools during the Division In-service Training. But since then there were limited documentation on the efficacy of the said pedagogical approaches. Hence, this action research was conceived.

What are the perceptions of the Grade 7 students and teachers in using collaborative learning approaches in Araling Panlipunan subject? What are the positive and negative impact of collaborative learning from the point of view of the students and the teachers as well? What factors are considered as hindrances of collaborative learning from the point of view of the students and the teachers?

METHODS

Descriptive design was used to find out the perception of the students and teachers on collaborative learning in Araling Panlipunan subject. Random sampling was used to select the respondents. Respondents' responses were summarized to show the positive and negative impact of collaborative learning, and it also showed their common answer with regards to the difficulties or hindrances in using the tool.

RESULTS

The perceptions of the Grade 7 students and teachers affirmed that students and teachers find it enjoyable in sharing ideas, information, and resources during the group activity. Secondly, they both agree that being a good listener improves critical thinking. But some hindrances of collaborative learning are students not ready with the dynamics of the group, lack of time, materials, multimedia facilities, lack of communication skills, and the tendency of the members to rely on their leaders.

DISCUSSIONS

There is clearly a need for more in-depth research on the effect of collaborative learning on the performances of the students since they have affirmed that collaborative learning is enjoyable and uplifting. In the future, teachers in other subjects are also encouraged to find out how collaborative learning has impacted on the students' performance. Since the teachers have already found out that collaborative learning was perceived as an effective tool, they should attend more seminars to adapt and enhance this learning tool.